Elder Law FAX -- September 5, 2005

What to Do After the Storm -- and Before
Hurricane Katrina has devastated thousands of homes and businesses along the Gulf coast. Millions of Americans are faced with the task of patching up their lives and property. Losses in dollars are estimated in the billions of dollars, perhaps exceeding $25 billion. All of the dead have yet to be found.

How do you protect yourself, your family, and your property from a natural catastrophe? Obviously, as we have learned from the situation in New Orleans, if authorities order an evacuation and you have the means to do so, leave the affected area. But what about after that? The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) offers these tips to inform insurance consumers what to do after a major storm to ensure that the necessary steps are taken to protect property and family:

o Buy the materials you need to secure your property and minimize your losses. Cover your windows with shutters or plywood and move your vehicles into a garage or carport whenever possible.
o If your home is damaged or is currently awaiting repairs, take steps to protect your home from further damage and document the state of your home with photos or video.
o Beware of downed power lines, especially near water -- to avoid risk of electrocution.
o When returning home, do not drive through flooded areas or through road barriers -- they are there for your safety.
o If your house is damaged, shut electricity off at the breakers. Keep power off until an electrician has inspected your system for safety.
o Immediately report property damage or additional damage to your insurance agent and company.
o If you have difficulty reaching your insurance company, contact your state insurance department's consumer hotline for assistance. Links to all state insurance departments can be found on http://www.naic.org.
o Do not have permanent repairs made until your insurance company has inspected the property and you have reached an agreement on the cost of repairs.
o Beware of fly-by-night repair businesses. Hire licensed and reputable service and repair people. Get references and use local businesses, when possible.
o Take precautions if the damage requires you to leave your home. Let your agent or insurance company know of your temporary forwarding address and phone number.

Before the Storm
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) asks residents who are at risk for hurricane damage to make sure that they have adequate hurricane coverage on their home and other belongings. NOAA suggests:

1. Check Your Homeowner's Insurance Policy. Get your insurance policy out and see what kind of hurricane coverage you have. Most people don't know what their policies cover, so now is the time to get it out and read it. The first thing you need to check is your overall insurance limits. If you've made improvements to your home, make sure that your policy covers the amount that your home is worth now. Call your insurance agent, because some improvements, like roof replacement or the addition of hurricane-safe glass could entitle you to premium discounts.

2. What Is NOT Covered in Your Policy.
One of the biggest concerns in the wake of a hurricane is flooding, which is not covered under your homeowner's insurance. Flood insurance is administered through the federal government. Purchase your flood insurance now, because there is often a 30-day waiting period between the date of application and the effective date of coverage. There are separate policies for the home or building structure and the personal contents (clothing, furniture, appliances, etc.).

3. Take Stock.
Prepare a detailed inventory list of all personal belongings, including furniture, audio equipment and other valuables. Keep this inventory log along with your homeowner insurance policy in a place that will not be susceptible to flood water, such as a watertight safe or safe deposit box. This inventory will serve as a reminder and as proof to your insurance company of your belongings. You can also take pictures of your belongings to further provide proof in the event of a loss.

4. More Hurricane Tips.
o Stock your pantry. Stock up on food, water, batteries and any other necessities you might need in the event of a hurricane or tropical storm.
o Have an evacuation plan. In the event of a hurricane, your family should have a place to go if your home is in danger.
o Make sure you have your insurance agent's contact information on hand to call immediately following a hurricane.
o Get your camera ready. It is a good idea to take pictures of your flood/hurricane-damaged property as soon as you can. This will help expedite the claims process so it goes faster.
o Alert emergency services if there is someone in your household with special needs. They will be able to help you plan for evacuation for those individuals.
o Have your doctor's contact information handy if evacuation becomes necessary, and take with you all medications and medical information in case medical attention is required.

5. Get More Information. Information is your best policy. Contact your insurance agent or company if you have questions regarding your homeowners insurance. They will help you figure out if you are adequately covered. You can also contact your state insurance commissioner, and they can help you decipher your policy.

Here is one final tip, offered by all of us at the Elder law Practice: in your emergency plans, remember others who may need help -- for instance, an elderly neighbor who lives by herself or a friend or relative with a disability that limits his mobility. You might just save someone's life.

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